Author to speak about Michigan's historic train stations

The enduring appeal of the classic railway depot has inspired songwriters, advertisers, and painters. Most recently, it has led Michael H. Hodges on an odyssey throughout the state to photograph and learn the stories of 31 of Michigan's interesting and picturesque railroad stations.

The enduring appeal of the classic railway depot has inspired songwriters, advertisers, and painters. Most recently, it has led Michael H. Hodges on an odyssey throughout the state to photograph and learn the stories of 31 of Michigan's interesting and picturesque railroad stations.

Some, like the Amtrak station in Jackson -- the oldest active passenger station in the country -- still see daily passenger boardings, while others, such as the handsome depot in St. Johns, no longer even have tracks alongside. All are focal points of their communities with stories to tell.

Hodges will speak about the architecture and history of some of these stations at next meeting of the Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers taking place at the former Grand Trunk Railroad Depot in St. Johns. Also on the program are Jenny and Gary McCampbell who will share their experiences in managing the Clinton Northern Railway Museum which currently occupies the St. Johns station.

The station is located at 107 E. Railroad St. in St. Johns. The meeting begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 9. Community members are invited to attend at no charge. Hodge's book "Michigan's Historic Railroad Stations" will be available for purchase.

For further information, leave a message at 269-388-3777 or send an email to marprail@yahoo.com.

ABOUT US

The Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers (MARP) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation established in 1973 to improve passenger train service, travel conditions for passengers, and to work for the preservation of historic rail stations. For more information send an email to marprail@yahoo.com or visit www.marp.org.